What would any of our ministries be without volunteers? Whether you are a disability ministry leader, kid min leader, or any other position in the church, you probably realize that volunteers really make ministry work.

Think of a Sunday morning.

The coffee station, the check-in desk, the Sunday school teachers, and the student buddies are all likely made possible by volunteers (just to name a few!).

My husband pastors a smaller church, so we are almost entirely volunteer-run, and we are so thankful! Members of our church show up every Sunday to set up, staple worship guides, teach kiddos, and clean up after service. Without these faithful volunteers, Sunday morning simply would not go as smoothly as it does.

I love what 1 Peter 4:10 says in regards to how we should use our gifts: “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace.” As we think about the volunteers that serve our churches and ministries with their time and talents, we also need to be sure we are letting them know how much we appreciate them.

volunteer appreciation ideas

Letting your volunteers know you care doesn't have to be elaborate or expensive! A small gesture can make a big impact on a volunteer when they can see that they matter to you and your church. The list below is by no means exhaustive or prescriptive, but it might get some ideas flowing for showing some extra appreciation to the volunteers in your ministry.

Starting off easy: Snacks! Everyone loves a little treat on occasion. Putting out a communal volunteer snack basket or choosing snacks specific to each person is a super easy way to let your volunteers know you love them!
Pens/Post-Its/Sharpies. What is it about fresh office supplies that feels so fun? A notepad and a fun pen is a simple and practical gift that everybody loves.
Volunteer lunch/breakfast. If your budget and schedule allow, hosting a casual lunch or breakfast for volunteers on a Sunday morning can give you the chance to personally thank all of your volunteers at once!
My favorite option: A handwritten note. What better way to say thank youthan to put it in writing?

Whether you go with any of these ideas or you simply make it a point to verbally express your gratitude, let your volunteers know you appreciate them. Nobody is volunteering for the accolades or the praise, but telling them that their hard work is seen and appreciated will likely make them stick around longer, be more cheerful workers, and feel excited about ministry!

We appreciate all of YOU and the ministry you are doing week in and week out! If there is ever any way that we can better support you in reaching individuals with disabilities with the gospel, please comment below and let us know!